Greek Quinoa Salad is one of my favorite dishes. I love anything Greek and Kalamata olives which is why I love this Greek Quinoa Salad. It’s great as a side dish or a main. It’s easy to make when you have limited time. Cooking quinoa in advance is one time-saving tip as it stores well in the refrigerator. I like to cook a bit extra and make breakfast quinoa.

I buy Kalamata olives in gross at Costco. Well maybe it’s just a huge jar but it is a lot when you are the only one in your household that loves them. Yes, I’m obsessed and happy to have the entire jar to myself.

The other wonderful part of this recipe is that it contains quinoa which is one of the best plant proteins. It has everything going for it being a plant, gluten-free, low-calorie, and complete protein.  Quinoa technically isn’t a grain but is a seed. To learn more about quinoa and all the benefits, the Food Network has a great quinoa article and recipes. The Food Network is my go-to site for recipes as they use predominantly whole foods.

This recipe calls for a homemade Greek Dressing which you can make in advance as well and you can use it with all your salad greens.

Let me know how much you enjoy this recipe and any ideas for quinoa. As always, use organic ingredients as much as possible. I buy the organic quinoa at Costco as well.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 1 cucumber chopped
• 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, halfed
• One medium red bell pepper, diced (approximately 1/2 cup)
• One small red onion, diced (approximately 1/4 cup)
• Greek dressing (see recipe below)

Directions

1. Prepare quinoa in a rice cooker or on the stovetop according to directions.
2. Chop all the veggies and combine in a large mixing bowl.  Add the cooked quinoa.
3. Pour half a cup of dressing on the salad stir to combine.
4. Serves on top of your favorite greens or by itself.

Makes 2 to 4 servings.

Greek dressing

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dill

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon honey

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

Place all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour over your favorite salad and enjoy!